All participants in the inaugural Fiji Innovation Hub Hackathon were celebrated for their contributions during the three-day event held at the Reserve Bank of Fiji. A total of fifteen participants formed three teams that competed in three distinct categories: Fintech, Ease of Doing Business, and Sustainability.
The winners in each category received a cash prize of $3,000, while second-place teams took home $2,000, and third-place teams were awarded complementary prizes. Throughout the event, the teams showcased innovative business ideas specifically designed to meet the objectives of their respective categories.
Participants hailed from a variety of backgrounds, including established startups, existing businesses, the broader workforce, and the student community, highlighting the inclusive nature of the event. New Zealand High Commissioner to Fiji, Greg Andrews, emphasized that the ideas presented during the hackathon reflect the evolving business landscape in Fiji and have the potential to significantly impact the country’s economic future.
The Hackathon received support from several organizations, including the UNDP, the governments of New Zealand and Australia, Mastercard, the Reserve Bank of Fiji, and the Ministry of Finance. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of innovation in driving Fiji’s progress in various sectors. The event not only fostered creativity and entrepreneurship among participants but also showcased Fiji’s commitment to embracing new ideas as it navigates its economic challenges.